Various artists The Blues 1923 To 1933 (BBC Records...

April 06, 1989|By Chris Heim.

Various artists

The Blues 1923 To 1933 (BBC Records) (STAR)(STAR)(STAR)

While the last few years have seen an outpouring of articles, films and books about the 1920s classic blues women, their recordings remain much harder to find. This new compilation from Australian sound engineer Robert Parker`s

``Jazz Classics In Digital Stereo`` series helps fill the void. Though improved, the sound quality still leaves something to be desired, the songs are not always the artists` best and several major performers are absent. But the set is impressive and enjoyable. It covers virtually every important stylistic base, from the gruff country sounds to the sweeter popular styles and from early jazz to jug band and country influences. Included are some of the era`s greatest stars, including Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey. Extensive liner notes provide background on the music and artists. (Available from Mobile Fidelity, 1260 Holm Rd., Petaluma, Calif. 94952, 800-423-5759.)